Laparoscopic Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) Repair: Review Article

Abstract

Background: Inguinal hernia is one of the most common conditions encountered in general surgical practice, representing the majority of abdominal wall hernias and accounting for a large number of elective surgical procedures worldwide. Although many inguinal hernias progress slowly and may initially cause only mild discomfort, untreated cases can lead to complications such as obstruction, incarceration, or strangulation. Mesh-based repair has become the standard treatment because it reduces recurrence and improves postoperative recovery compared with traditional tissue repair. Laparoscopic approaches, particularly transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair, have gained increasing acceptance due to their advantages in bilateral and recurrent hernias, reduced postoperative pain, faster return to normal activity, and the ability to inspect both groins through the same access. TAPP repair involves entering the abdominal cavity, creating a preperitoneal flap, dissecting the hernia sac, placing a large mesh over the myopectineal orifice, and closing the peritoneum securely. However, the technique requires detailed anatomical knowledge and adequate surgical experience to avoid complications such as vascular injury, bowel injury, bladder injury, chronic groin pain, urinary retention, mesh-related complications, and recurrence. Therefore, proper patient selection, meticulous technique, and awareness of potential complications are essential for optimal outcomes.